SEO & AEO

Generative engine optimization (GEO)

Improving how often and how accurately AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity mention and cite your business.

By Nick Irmo · Updated

What Generative engine optimization (GEO) means

Generative AI tools summarize the web, and GEO aims to make your content easy for them to understand and trust. That means clear facts, consistent business information across the web, expert content and mentions on reputable sites. The field is young, so be wary of anyone promising guaranteed results.

Why it matters for your website

More people now ask AI tools for recommendations instead of scrolling search results. If those tools do not mention your business, or get your details wrong, you miss leads you never knew existed. GEO builds on good SEO habits and helps make sure AI answers describe you correctly.

Example

A Naperville HVAC company asks an AI tool for the best furnace repair nearby and sees outdated hours listed. It fixes its listings everywhere and adds a clear FAQ page to its site.

Tips

  • Keep your business name, address, phone and hours identical across the web.
  • Answer common customer questions in clear, factual language on your site.
  • Earn mentions on reputable local and industry sites.

Common mistakes

  • Paying for services that promise guaranteed AI citations.
  • Abandoning SEO basics, which AI tools still rely on to find content.

Questions about Generative engine optimization (GEO)

What is Generative engine optimization (GEO)?
Improving how often and how accurately AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity mention and cite your business.
Is GEO different from SEO?
It overlaps a lot. GEO focuses on how AI tools understand and cite you, while SEO focuses on search rankings, but both reward clear, trustworthy content.
How do I check if AI tools mention my business?
Ask several AI tools the questions your customers would ask and note whether you appear and whether the details are right. Repeat regularly, since answers change.

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